Observing Basics: Visual Solar Filters

Learn how what Senior Editor Michael E. Bakich calls the least appreciated observing accessory can help you spot granulation and track sunspots on our home star.
By | Published: April 11, 2012 | Last updated on May 18, 2023
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Expand your observing at Astronomy.com





StarDome

Check out Astronomy.com’s interactive StarDome to see an accurate of your sky. This tool will help you locate this week’s targets.

Intro to the Sky: Get to know the night sky
Learn how to use star charts, find constellations, and observe the brightest objects in your night sky with in this handy reference section.

Tour the solar system: The Sun
Explore the characteristics of our home star and the methods scientists are using to study it in this informative video.

The Sky this Week
Get a daily digest of celestial events coming soon to a sky near you.

Observing Talk
After you listen to the podcast and try to find the objects, be sure to share your observing experience with us by leaving a comment at the blog or in the Reader Forums.